🍁 Chapter 2: Who We Are
2.4.3 Religion in Canada
2 paragraphs · 2 questions
The great majority of people in Canada identify as Christians. Catholics form the single largest religious group, and the various Protestant churches come next. Other communities are growing: Muslims, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs and members of further religions. The number of people who say they have no religion at all is rising too. Religious life in the country is therefore both mainly Christian and steadily more varied.
Key Facts
- Most Canadians identify as Christian
- Catholic is the largest affiliation, then Protestant churches
- Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Sikh and “no religion” numbers are growing
There is a long tradition in Canada of the state and faith communities working together. They cooperate to encourage social welfare, harmony and mutual respect between people. Together they have run schools and provided health care. They have also helped refugees settle into a new life. And they stand behind freedom of religion, the right to practise and express that religion, and freedom of conscience. This partnership is part of how Canadian society holds together.
Key Facts
- State and faith communities have long worked together
- Joint work: schools, health care, resettling refugees
- Protects freedom of religion, expression of faith, and conscience
Test yourself on this topic
2 practice questions from “Religion in Canada”, each with the answer explained.
- Which two of these has the state traditionally done in partnership with faith communities?
- Which religious affiliation is the largest in Canada?
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